Explains the proper use of the various types of Japanese saws, planes, chisels, sharpening stones, and measuring tools

Essential information for hobbyists and professionals; fully illustrated

The Genius of Japanese Carpentry tells the story of the 1200-year-old Yakushiji monastery in Nara and the dedicated modern-day craftsmen who are working to restore what has been lost to the depredations of time, fire and warfare. Although the full monastery reconstruction will not be completed until 2030, one of the main temples, the Picture Hall, has been completely restored employing the same woodworking technology used to create the original building. This new edition of an architectural classic is by Azby Brown—one of the world's leading experts on Japanese architecture. It contains a new preface and many new text materials and photographs—most of them now available in color for the first time. Azby Brown chronicles the painstaking restoration of the temple through extensive interviews with the carpenters and woodworkers along with original drawings based on the plans of master carpenter Tsunekazu Nishioka. An inspiring testament to the dedication of these craftsmen and their philosophy of carpentry work as a form of personal fulfillment, The Genius of Japanese Carpentry offers detailed documentation of this singular project and a moving reminder of the unique cultural continuity found in Japan.

La menuiserie japonaise complète est le manuel le plus accessible et le plus complet disponible en anglais sur l'art du travail du bois au Japon. Ce livre couvre tous les aspects du métier complexe et exigeant du travail du bois japonais, y compris le soin et l'utilisation des outils, la disposition et le marquage du bois, la découpe des joints et leur assemblage final.

Tells how to use and care for Japanese woodworking tools, shows how to create traditional Japanese joints, and looks at the techniques used to frame a house